ORIGINAL: Roskoe
Taking the concept one step further would be a cannon. I built one of these when I was in high school. Used a 4" steel bar that was about 24" long. Bored a 2" hole in it. No rifling. Made a mold for casting a 1.9" lead ball. I would expect the pressures, even with a 1/4 can of black powder, were quite low.
However, the trend toward smaller bullets at higher velocities and pressures in undeniable. Mainly for long range trajectory and, to a lesser, degree, recoil I'm personally thinking about hunting with a 200 grain Shockwave in 2006. This .40 caliber bullet has a high BC and is going over 2300 comfortably; and could represent an honest 250 yard load. I like the big lead conicals but they start dropping off pretty fast beyond 150 yards.
Right, and I understand the need for the load you use. I also live in Colorado and if I used my ML in regular rifle Elk season, I would probably use a load just like the one you are using. I expect to draw antlered elk for statewide ML season this year and hope to call my elk close enough for a big lead conical.
Allow me to say this. I am not worried about you, sabotloader, and others who are very experienced with MLers. This is really for the benefit of individuals who have been frightened from using their Spanish barrelled rifles and people who have children who are not experienced with MLers.I am hoping to givethem an understanding which will give them some level of confidence that the Muzzleloader they purchase can be enjoyed and hunted with safely.
Happy Hunting, Phil